Edtech in Saudi Arabia: revolutionizing education through innovation

Edtech in Saudi Arabia: revolutionizing education through innovation
Above, a student attends online classes at the French International Lycee in Riyadh. (AFP file photo)
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Updated 28 December 2024
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Edtech in Saudi Arabia: revolutionizing education through innovation

Edtech in Saudi Arabia: revolutionizing education through innovation

RIYADH: Edtech, short for educational technology, refers to the use of technology—hardware, software, and digital resources—to enhance teaching, learning, and educational outcomes.

It encompasses a wide range of tools and techniques aimed at improving the educational experience, including online learning platforms, educational apps, digital textbooks, virtual reality simulations, gamified learning experiences, and more.

Edtech is utilized in schools, universities, corporate training settings, and lifelong learning environments to make education more engaging, accessible, and effective.

When it comes to Saudi Arabia specifically, investing in edtech aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision of establishing a knowledge-based economy.

The edtech market size in Saudi Arabia is projected to exhibit a growth rate of 13.3 percent during 2024-2032, according to global management consulting firm imarc.

This comes as the market is being propelled by a surge in demand for tailored education to meet individual student needs, a heightened emphasis on digital literacy and tech competencies, and a growing recognition of the value of adaptable and convenient learning options.

Saudi efforts

There is no doubt that the Saudi Ministry of Education isn’t just talking about the future—they’re building it, step by step, with initiatives designed to transform their classrooms into cutting-edge hubs of AI and digital mastery.

“Take their ‘Future Intelligence Program,’ for example, which aims to empower 30,000 students with skills in AI, machine learning, and smart technologies. Imagine a generation of Saudi youth who can program self-driving cars before they even graduate high school,” Ian Khan, a technology futurist and author who writes on the subject of AI, told Arab News.

“This is more than just an upgrade in skills—this is about shaping a workforce ready to dominate the tech economy. Layer on top of that the SAMAI initiative, where 1 million Saudis will gain expertise in AI and digital tools, and it becomes clear that Saudi Arabia isn’t just keeping up with global tech trends—they're aiming to lead them,” Khan added.

He went on to note that this bold vision is intricately aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which strives to create a knowledge-driven economy.

“This AI-driven, personalized learning experience is where the future of education meets the individual’s unique strengths and needs, gearing up the country for its next leap forward,” Khan concluded in that regard.

Initiatives

There is no doubt that the Kingdom is actively integrating AI into its education system to create a future-ready workforce.

“Programs such as the Future Intelligence Programmer aim to train thousands of students in AI, equipping them with the skills to innovate in a rapidly digital world. AI is being used to personalize learning experiences, automate administrative tasks for educators, and enable more tailored educational pathways,” Samer Bohsali, Middle East head of government & public sector practice, Bain & Co., told Arab News.

“These efforts are part of a broader vision to transform the Kingdom’s education system, setting new standards for digital literacy and student engagement,” Bohsali said.

On behalf of PwC Middle East, Partner at Education and Skills Ayham Fayyoumi told Arab News that the Kingdom is adopting a cautious yet forward-thinking approach to AI in education, with initiatives focusing on several key areas.




Samer Bohsali, Middle East Head of Government & Public Sector Practice, Bain & Co. (Supplied)

“One notable example is the implementation of adaptive learning systems, which use AI to analyze individual student performance and tailor educational content accordingly. These systems can identify students’ strengths and weaknesses, offering personalized learning experiences that enhance educational outcomes,” Fayyoumi said.

“Additionally, AI-powered virtual assistants are being introduced to support both teachers and students in managing routine tasks, such as administrative work or grading, allowing educators to dedicate more time to core instructional activities. These AI tools are designed to streamline workflows, enhance productivity, and improve engagement in the classroom,” he added.

Global partnerships

Global EdTech partnerships are crucial for the Kingdom for several reasons including access to innovation, enhanced learning opportunities, cross-cultural exchange, among several others.

“When Saudi Arabia decided to revolutionize its educational landscape, they didn’t go it alone—they teamed up with global powerhouses like Google, Microsoft, and Coursera. This collaboration isn't just window dressing. It’s a deliberate strategy to equip students and educators with the latest tools in AI, cloud computing, and data science,” Khan said.

“Google Cloud’s Elevate Program, for example, has trained over 25,000 Saudi women in cloud technologies. This is more than just a skillset boost—this is building a tech-savvy workforce that can compete on a global stage,” he added.

The technology futurist continued to highlight that these partnerships give Saudi educators access to AI-powered platforms that personalize learning and streamline assessments, ultimately creating more engaging and efficient classrooms.

“The future of education isn’t just digital—it’s adaptable, global, and responsive. And Saudi Arabia, through these forward-thinking collaborations, is leading the charge toward a tech-dominant educational future,” Khan said.

Saudi Arabia’s collaboration with global tech leaders also empowers the nation to adopt advanced educational tools that inspire innovation in the classroom.

From Bain & Co.’s side, Bohsali explained that these partnerships provide access to AI-driven platforms that foster personalized learning and critical thinking.

“This digital transformation is not just about adopting technology but also about reshaping how education is delivered, making learning more engaging and aligned with the future needs of the global economy ,” he said.

Saudi Arabia’s educational technology firms are using AI and technological advancements to revolutionize conventional educational approaches and enhance student achievements. Taking cues from effective programs in the UK and elsewhere, Saudi Arabia is directing significant resources into AI-infused tools across various sectors, particularly education.

Consequently, this initiative is fostering expansion in the education sector and sparking creativity within private enterprises, which is positively impacting more than 6 million students in the nation.

In that regard, PwC partner Fayyoumi said: “Several EdTech companies are at the forefront of this revolution, incorporating advanced AI technologies into their products and services to enhance learning experiences.”

“These companies are providing products utilizing AI to offer personalized learning pathways, adaptive assessments, and real-time feedback to better meet the unique needs of individual students. Such tools not only improve engagement but also boost academic performance by catering to diverse learning styles,” he added.

Saudi Vision 2030

“Saudi Vision 2030 isn’t just about a shift in economic strategy—it’s a transformation in mindset. At the heart of this vision is the move from a resource-based economy to one driven by knowledge, innovation, and technology,” Khan said.

“By embedding AI and digital learning in classrooms, programs like SAMAI and the Future Intelligence Program are crafting a new generation of thinkers, doers, and creators. The ripple effects will be profound. Think about it—students will be more engaged because their learning is tailored to their strengths,” he added.

The technology futurist emphasized that the education system will be more efficient, and graduates will emerge prepared for high-demand sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and digital industries.

He underlined that this is the essence of future readiness—where a nation’s educational foundation aligns perfectly with the demands of tomorrow’s economy.

On Bain & Co.’s behalf, Bohsali said: “By embedding AI and advanced technologies into the curriculum, the Kingdom is fostering a generation of learners who are not only technologically adept but also equipped to lead in innovation.”




Ayham Fayyoumi, Partner, Education and Skills, PwC Middle East.

“The expected outcomes are profound—enhanced digital literacy, improved educational outcomes, and the positioning of Saudi Arabia as a global leader in the knowledge economy,” Bohsali added.

Education is a key pillar, for both youth and above in achieving the goals of Vision 2030. This comes as the median age of Saudis is 22 years, and 63 percent of the Saudi population is below the age of 30.

Furthermore, PwC’s 2024 Hopes & Fears survey shows that nearly three-quarters of people surveyed in Saudi foresee the growing importance of digital skills in their roles over the coming five years.

“Incorporating digital tools within the education ecosystem can help boost the overall student learning experience and prepare them for their future work environments,” Fayyoumi said.

The PwC partner concluded by emphasizing that by enhancing the education sector using digital technologies such as AI, Saudi Arabia stands to build a globally competitive society, and to become the hub for the next generation of digitally equipped leaders in the Kingdom.

“Thus, the digital transformation of the education sector is another important part of Vision 2030’s success, to ensure young people in the Kingdom have the right skills for the future world of work,” he said.


Saudi labor market transformation ‘spectacular,’ says former Swedish minister 

Saudi labor market transformation ‘spectacular,’ says former Swedish minister 
Updated 5 sec ago
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Saudi labor market transformation ‘spectacular,’ says former Swedish minister 

Saudi labor market transformation ‘spectacular,’ says former Swedish minister 

RIYADH: Countries around the world can take lessons from the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s labor market, a former Swedish employment minister has insisted.

Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the Global Labor Market Conference in Riyadh, Sven Otto Littorin praised the Kingdom’s progress since the launch of Vision 2030, which has seen female workforce participation doubling in nearly six years. 

The changes have seen Saudi Arabia emerge as a global leader in addressing labor market challenges, skill development, and workforce prequalification, as highlighted in the inaugural GLMC report in December. 

The findings align with Vision 2030’s goal to reduce unemployment from 11.6 percent in 2017 to 7 percent by the end of the decade. 

“I would go as far as to say that most other countries could learn a thing or two from Saudi Arabia. The transformation of the Saudi labor market since the start of Vision 2030 is truly nothing less than spectacular. The Kingdom has made so much progress in such a short time it is hard to choose,” said Littorin, who is also an international business and policymaking expert. 

He praised the significant increase in female workforce participation, noting that Saudi Arabia achieved a twofold rise in just six years, a feat that took Sweden 40 years to accomplish. 

“Roughly 35 percent of women in the workforce have leadership positions, and I saw an opinion poll recently that stated that over 75 percent of Saudi men saw this as very favorable to family life,” he added. 

Unprecedented progress 

The Kingdom’s labor market reforms align with Vision 2030 goals, as recent data from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Statistics shows the overall unemployment rate fell to 3.7 percent in the third quarter of 2024, a 0.5 percentage point drop from the previous year. 

Unemployment among Saudi nationals was 7.8 percent, while female participation reached 36.2 percent. 

Littorin emphasized the broader societal impact of these changes, saying: “As a foreigner, I have to say that it is so gratifying to see these women in the labor market, earning their own money, contributing to their families and to the growth of the country with their productivity, their grit, and ambition.” 

He added: “Saudi Arabia is a richer nation for it, where everyone is involved in the growth of the country.”

Saudi Arabia’s young workforce is another key driver of its economic transformation, Littorin noted. “The Gulf Cooperation Council region and Saudi Arabia, in particular, have a very young workforce. This is a great advantage compared with many other places around the world. A young workforce is versatile, agile, and finds it easier to learn new skills than others,” he said. 

The former minister also pointed to the Kingdom’s growing appeal to international investors and tourists. “When I first came to Riyadh in 2017, I was almost the only foreigner on every flight I took into the Kingdom. Now, these flights are filled with tourists and investors alike. The interest in Saudi Arabia has exploded,” Littorin said. 

A November report by BlackRock Investment Institute echoed this sentiment, predicting that Saudi Arabia’s future growth will be driven by its young population and abundant natural resources. However, the report cautioned that success will depend on governance, regulatory improvements, and labor market reforms. 

Sustainable growth 

Littorin stressed the importance of international cooperation to sustain this growth. He suggested partnerships between Saudi Arabia and countries like Sweden to enhance the Kingdom’s job market. 

“Saudi Arabia might want technological solutions in waste management from Sweden, for instance,” Littorin said. 

He added that the Saudi workforce is young and eager to learn from abroad, suggesting that joint venture solutions could foster mutual learning, with the possibility of exchanging workforces for a period to strengthen bonds between companies, economies, and countries. 

“Solutions like this would create larger markets for the companies involved, enhance job training for both Swedes and Saudis, broaden international exposure and contacts while increasing relevancy to both countries. The world is global, and so are its solutions,” Littorin added. 

Global platform 

The Global Labor Market Conference in Riyadh. AN

The second edition of the GLMC is taking place at the King Abdulaziz International Convention Center on Jan. 29-30, drawing over 5,000 attendees and 200 speakers, including ministers, CEOs, and experts from more than 50 countries. 

Littorin, a keynote speaker at the event, described the conference as a global platform for dialogue on future labor market trends. This year’s conference focuses on skills and productivity, exploring how education, skilling, upskilling, and reskilling can better meet tomorrow’s demands. 

“Solutions in economic policy, education policy, and labor market policy need to go hand in hand to support the transformation of our economies for the good of both people, companies, and countries,” he said. 

Littorin emphasized the need for upskilling and reskilling to adapt to the fast-evolving job market. “The long-term key to economic growth and prosperity is not only to find ways to create more jobs but to create better jobs; jobs that through higher productivity are more rewarding to the individual and contribute more to the economy,” he said. 

The former minister highlighted the role of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence in shaping global labor markets, particularly in the Middle East, emphasizing that “technology, digital transformation, and AI are key in so many aspects.” 

“Technology will enhance our ability to better understand where we are and where we are going. Digitalization will improve productivity not only in general terms but specifically in education and job matching,” Littorin said.


Oil Updates — prices ease on rising US inventories, Libyan output

Oil Updates — prices ease on rising US inventories, Libyan output
Updated 51 min 5 sec ago
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Oil Updates — prices ease on rising US inventories, Libyan output

Oil Updates — prices ease on rising US inventories, Libyan output

SINGAPORE/TOKYO: Oil prices slid on Wednesday, giving up some of last session’s gains, as an increase in US crude stockpiles and easing worries over Libyan supplies weighed on prices, although the decline was limited by potential US tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports.

Brent crude futures fell 18 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $77.31 a barrel by 8:48 a.m. Saudi time, while US crude futures declined 15 cents, or 0.2 percent, at $73.62 a barrel.

“While markets are tackling demand side pressures, easing backdrop on supply side is equally weighing over oil prices,” said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova in Singapore.

“Markets are under pressure with Trump’s plans to boost US oil production and await further clarity on Trump’s energy policies.”

US President Donald Trump began his term last week issuing several executive orders to ease the permitting of energy infrastructure and boost already record-high oil and gas output.

US crude oil and gasoline stocks rose last week, while distillate inventories fell, market sources said on Tuesday, citing American Petroleum Institute figures.

The Energy Information Administration, the statistical arm of the US Department of Energy, is due to release its weekly data at 6:30 p.m. Saudi time on Wednesday.

The resolution of supply concerns in Libya has also added to selling pressure, said Chiyoki Chen, chief analyst at Sunward Trading in Tokyo.

Those fears eased after the state-run National Oil Corp. said on Tuesday export activity was running normally after it held talks with protesters demanding a halt of loadings at one its main oil ports.

The White House said on Tuesday that President Trump still plans to issue 25 percent tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Saturday.

It remains unclear how any new tariffs could affect oil imports to the US from the countries. Canada supplied 3.9 million barrels per day of oil to the US in 2023, roughly half of overall imports for the year, while Mexico supplied 733,000 bpd, according to data from the EIA.

Saudi Arabia’s energy minister and several of his OPEC+ counterparts have held talks following Trump’s call for lower oil prices and ahead of a meeting next week of OPEC+ oil-producing countries, according to official statements and sources.

Oil benchmarks fell to multi-week lows early this week as news of surging interest in Chinese startup DeepSeek’s low-cost artificial intelligence model prompted concerns over energy demand to power data centers, rattling the overall energy sector, while weak economic data from China further soured the demand outlook.

Technology stocks regained ground on Tuesday, a day after the DeepSeek rattled markets. 


Saudi Arabia’s property market set for growth with billions in new projects

Saudi Arabia’s property market set for growth with billions in new projects
Updated 29 January 2025
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Saudi Arabia’s property market set for growth with billions in new projects

Saudi Arabia’s property market set for growth with billions in new projects
  • The largest PIF projects in the Kingdom are in the Asir region
  • At least 50 percent of the country’s tourism is expected be centered in Riyadh

RIYADH: The Saudi real estate landscape is poised for substantial growth, as industry leaders, policymakers, and investors gathered at the Real Estate Future Forum in Riyadh to unveil major developments in property investment and tourism.

Highlighting the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 objectives, Asir Gov. Prince Turki bin Talal revealed the Public Investment Fund is spearheading nine major projects in the region, with four already launched and five in progress. “The largest PIF projects in the Kingdom are in the Asir region,” the governor said, emphasizing the region’s pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s evolving property market.

The governor highlighted the region’s growing hospitality sector, with between 6,000 and 8,000 approved hotel rooms currently available. 

He also announced that Abha’s World Cup bid had been officially recognized as the best in the Kingdom by the Ministry of Sports. 

Meanwhile, Al-Ahsa Gov. Prince Saud bin Talal unveiled plans to expand the region’s hospitality offerings. “Our pipeline includes over seven or eight hotels and more than 25 rural lodges, including three five-star hotels: Hilton, Radisson Blu, and Hilton Garden Inn,” he said. Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb noted the rapid expansion of the Kingdom’s hospitality industry, with hotel room capacity expected to grow from 475,000 to 675,000 by 2030. Al-Khateeb also discussed the impact of major infrastructure projects, such as the King Salman International Airport expansion and the launch of Riyadh Air, which are central to the Kingdom’s hyper-tourism strategy. 

He forecast that at least 50 percent of the country’s tourism will be centered in Riyadh, but emphasized efforts to keep the capital’s share from exceeding 80-90 percent. In the financial sector, Mohammed El-Kuwaiz, chairman of the Capital Market Authority, discussed the increasing role of real estate in the Kingdom’s investment market. 

“Around 20 percent of the 55 initial public offerings currently under review involve real estate companies,” he revealed. 

El-Kuwaiz emphasized the importance of financial stability and transparency for companies looking to list, advising them to treat investors as partners. 

In a significant move, he also announced that listed companies owning properties in Makkah and Madinah can now welcome foreign investors immediately.


SAMA permits full public launch of STC Bank in digitalization push

SAMA permits full public launch of STC Bank in digitalization push
Updated 28 January 2025
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SAMA permits full public launch of STC Bank in digitalization push

SAMA permits full public launch of STC Bank in digitalization push

RIYADH: The Saudi Central Bank, also known as SAMA, has authorized STC Bank to launch its full operations in Saudi Arabia.

As the first licensed digital bank in the Kingdom, STC Bank’s approval marks a significant step in SAMA’s ongoing strategy to accelerate digital transformation and enhance competitiveness in the banking sector.

At the same time, the move ensures the safeguarding of financial stability, according to a press statement from the central bank.

This milestone underscores the growing dynamism and potential of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy, while also highlighting SAMA’s efforts to create a regulatory framework that fosters innovation within the financial sector.

“SAMA is committed to strengthening the resilience of the banking sector, boosting its appeal, and increasing its role in achieving Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s broader national objectives. This includes empowering entrepreneurs and financial institutions to deliver innovative financial services to the Saudi market,” the central bank said.

The approval follows a significant step taken in April 2024, when SAMA formally approved the transition of STC Pay — the mobile financial services arm of Saudi Telecom Co. — to STC Bank. Following a nine-month beta launch, STC Bank is now poised to begin its full banking operations.

Additionally, in December 2024, SAMA also gave the green light to D360 Bank, another digital financial institution, allowing it to begin its operations in the Kingdom.


Al-Habtoor Group halts investment plans in Lebanon amid growing instability

Al-Habtoor Group halts investment plans in Lebanon amid growing instability
Updated 28 January 2025
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Al-Habtoor Group halts investment plans in Lebanon amid growing instability

Al-Habtoor Group halts investment plans in Lebanon amid growing instability

DUBAI: UAE-based business conglomerate Al-Habtoor Group has abandoned its plans to reenter the Lebanese market, citing ongoing “unrest and instability” caused by armed militias.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Khalaf Al-Habtoor, chairman of the group, explained that recent developments had deeply shaken his optimism.

“My team and I had been diligently preparing to launch new projects and expand existing investments in Lebanon, encouraged by promising signs such as the election of Gen. Joseph Aoun as president and the nomination of Nawaf Salam as prime minister. Both individuals embody integrity, credibility, and respect, instilling renewed hope among the Lebanese people — and investors like myself — for the country’s future,” the statement read.

However, he said that the continued dominance of armed militias, particularly what he described as “Shiite militias”, and the “absence of rule of law” have made it impossible for investors to proceed with confidence.

Tensions escalated with Hezbollah supporters holding rallies in Beirut, including in Christian-majority neighborhoods, further raising sectarian divisions. The protests followed the return of Shiite residents to southern Lebanon after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was recently extended.

In his statement, Al-Habtoor lamented the lack of decisive action from Lebanese authorities, including the army and the Ministry of Defense, in addressing these disturbances, noting that the situation was only worsening.

Unless the new government takes a firm stance against those working to destabilize the country, hopes for a “new Lebanon” will remain unfulfilled, he said.

Al-Habtoor clarified that the decision to pull out was made after careful analysis and close monitoring of the situation. As a result, neither he, his family, nor any group managers would be traveling to Lebanon.

Earlier this month, and following the wave of optimism that followed the election of President Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Al-Habtoor told Arab News in an interview that his group intended to move forward with plans to reopen its five-story mall in Beirut and relaunch the Habtoorland amusement park in Jamhour, contingent on Lebanon’s government delivering the promised security and stability measures.

The group, a multibillion-dollar global conglomerate, has diverse interests spanning luxury hotels, shopping malls, and more. As of January last year, its investments in Lebanon were estimated at around $1 billion.